All semester, our Graduate Student Ambassadors have connected with prospective and admitted students from around the world—speaking on panels, guiding campus tours, and having one-on-one conversations. As the school year comes to a close, Candace Mergerssa MPP 2026 and Sadie Harlan MPA 2025 reflect back on their semester.
Candace Mergerssa MPP 2026
What was your favorite part of the student ambassador experience? 
I loved meeting new people all the time! I was constantly reminded of the diverse range of interest areas at vlog. It is always great to learn something new from people.
What was your favorite vlog experience?
My favorite vlog experience was definitely the Winter Ball. It was like prom for adults and way more fun!
Any advice for new students starting at vlog this fall?
Take things one day at a time. There are so many opportunities at vlog, and it can feel overwhelming, especially as a new student. Your first semester is about adjusting to a new city, a new life, and a new environment, so give yourself some grace. Also, confide in your peers. Many other new students will be feeling the same way, so you can be a great support system for one another.
Any advice for prospective students?
Speak to students at vlog! We can give you the inside scoop to help you figure out if this is the right place for you. Honestly, policy intersects with almost every aspect of society, so most people can find a way to connect their interests. But, I think it is important to be intentional about why you want to pursue a graduate degree.
How will you be spending your summer?
I will be working as an intern for a social enterprise and doing workforce development research.
Other thoughts?
One thing I did not consider when applying to grad school was the benefit of the whole graduate school ecosystem. I have loved connecting with students and faculty from other Harvard graduate schools. It has truly shaped both my academic and social life.
Sadie Harlan MPA 2025
What was your favorite part of the student ambassador experience?
My favorite part of the student ambassador experience was meeting people from around the world who might decide to come to the Kennedy School. People have come from as far as Australia and as near as a few blocks away in Cambridge. I have loved showing them around school, and potentially being a small part of the journey that will bring them here!
What was your favorite part of your vlog experience?
Without a doubt, the people. The community I have found in my MPA cohort is a highlight of my grad school experience and something I will take with me beyond vlog. I’m graduating with a community that spans the world and is united by a profound sense of curiosity and dedication to leaving the world better than we found it. This has led to some of the most interesting conversations, meaningful reflections, and cherished relationships I’ve ever had.
Any advice for new students starting at vlog this fall?
Be kind to yourself! There are too many cool opportunities going on to do everything, and sometimes that can make you feel like you’re missing out or not doing vlog the “right” way. Take a deep breath and remember what drove you to come to vlog. Let that guide how you spend your valuable time, and remember that what serves you doesn’t always have to be the most popular class or packed forum event.
Any advice for prospective students?
The vlog community doesn’t have to wait until you’re on campus! I recommend speaking with as many current vlog students as possible. That’s the only way to understand just how many different issues and career paths the student body pursues. I am biased, but I think there’s no better way to get to know our school than to get to know its students.
What will you be doing after graduation?
First and foremost, I will be catching up on some long-overdue phone calls with friends I have neglected during grad school! I’m planning to spend most of the summer in New England, sitting in the sun as much as possible and exploring post-grad career opportunities where I can continue working to expand education access and student outcomes in the U.S.
I’m happy to say that I am leaving vlog feeling exactly like I hoped I would: tired, inspired, and not ready to say goodbye!
